Exploring Pisa from Florence: Your Travel Options

Located within 100 kilometers of each other, Florence and Pisa offer a variety of transport options for travelers, including trains, buses, and tours, allowing for an easy day trip to snap a picture with the famous Leaning Tower before returning to your hotel in Florence.

While Pisa is renowned for its Leaning Tower, it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and cultural significance, including being the birthplace of Galileo. Discover the best ways to travel from Florence to Pisa for a memorable visit.

1. From Florence to Pisa by Train

Trains from Florence to Pisa run frequently, with over 40 daily services. The journey takes between 50 to 90 minutes, depending on whether you opt for a high-speed train or a slower local one. Departures begin early from Santa Maria Novella Station, but since Pisa's attractions open later, a mid-morning train is ideal. Tickets can be purchased at the station, and while high-speed trains offer amenities like Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, slower trains do not. Upon arrival at Pisa Centrale, the city center is a short walk or bus/taxi ride away.

2. From Florence to Pisa by Day Tour

A nine-hour day tour from Florence not only covers Pisa but also the charming city of Lucca. Starting at 9am, you'll travel with a guide and explore Pisa's Piazza dei Miracoli, the Duomo Cathedral, and the Leaning Tower. Afterward, you'll visit Lucca, known for its intact Renaissance walls, and enjoy a guided tour of its historic sites. The tour offers a budget-friendly option without guided walks, giving you free time to explore.

3. From Florence to Pisa by Bus

Buses are the most economical choice, with companies like FlixBus and Baltour providing service. Buses leave from Florence's main stations and take about 95 minutes. Comfortable seating and amenities like Wi-Fi are available on some buses. Advance ticket purchases are recommended for the best prices. Buses arrive at Pisa's Autostazione Via Pietrasantina, a short distance from the city center.

4. From Florence to Pisa by Car

Driving from Florence to Pisa offers scenic views and takes about one hour and 20 minutes via the SS67 or A11/E76 highways. The SS67 route provides picturesque landscapes and opportunities to visit towns like Scandicci and San Miniato, known for its white truffles. However, driving in Pisa can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking. A GPS is recommended to avoid restricted zones and navigate effectively.